Greg Paterson sets the pace at St David's

GREG Paterson powered into the early lead during the first round of the Welsh Open Amateur Strokeplay championship at Royal St David's yesterday.

By The Newsroom

Published 22nd May 2010, 02:00 BST

Updated 22nd May 2010, 04:05 BST

The 23-year-old from St Andrews packed eight birdies into a six-under 63 to lead by two from Englishman David Coupland and Ranfurly Castle teenager Sam Binning.

McDonald's Adam Dunton was the next-best Scot on 68 while Paul Shields and former British Boys' champion Jordan Findlay both opened with 70s.

Downfield's Ross Bell hit a 75 with Dollar's Scott Borrowman a shot further back on 76.

Englishman St Andrews